Technical Project Lead Utilities

Job Title: Utilities Project Lead
Location: Visp
Job Type: Contract
Duration: 12months
Industry: Biopharmaceuticals / Biotechnology
Reports To: Project Manager / Director of Facilities

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced Utilities Project Lead to oversee critical utilities projects within our biopharmaceutical facility. As a contractor, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient, safe, and compliant operation of utility systems that support biomanufacturing processes. This role will involve leading project planning, design, execution, and commissioning phases, while working closely with cross-functional teams to meet regulatory and operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Management

  • Lead utilities projects, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
  • Develop and implement project timelines, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring alignment with project goals and deadlines.
  • Oversee installation, modification, and maintenance of utilities systems (e.g., HVAC, water systems, compressed air, steam, and waste management).
  • Track project progress and provide regular updates to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and clear communication.

• Technical Oversight

  • Act as the technical expert on utility systems, ensuring that all project activities comply with regulatory standards (FDA, cGMP) and internal quality and safety policies.
  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and validation teams to ensure utilities systems meet operational and regulatory requirements.
  • Review technical designs, drawings, and specifications, providing input to ensure systems meet required performance criteria.

• Vendor and Contractor Management

  • Coordinate with external vendors, contractors, and suppliers to secure resources, manage contracts, and ensure timely project delivery.
  • Conduct regular site inspections to monitor contractor performance, safety adherence, and quality of work.
  • Facilitate troubleshooting and resolution of project issues, providing technical guidance as needed.

• Commissioning and Qualification

  • Oversee commissioning, qualification, and validation activities for utility systems to ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Ensure utility systems are tested, documented, and ready for operational handover upon project completion.
  • Develop and implement commissioning plans, including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols and documentation.

• Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Compliance

  • Ensure all project activities adhere to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement by enforcing safety standards and addressing HSE concerns.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• Experience: 8+ years of experience in utilities or facilities management within the biopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, or biotech industry.
  • Proven experience leading utilities or facilities projects in regulated environments.
  • Knowledge of biopharmaceutical manufacturing utilities such as clean steam, WFI (Water for Injection), HVAC, and compressed air systems.
• Skills:
  • Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
  • Expertise in regulatory compliance (cGMP, FDA, etc.) and validation processes (IQ/OQ/PQ).
  • Proficiency with project management tools, engineering design software, and documentation practices.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent is a plus.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma).
• Knowledge of Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and validation protocols for utility systems in a GMP environment.

Why Join Us:

• Work with a dynamic team in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.
• Play a key role in advancing innovative biopharmaceutical manufacturing projects.
• Engage in meaningful work that supports health and science initiatives worldwide.

Note: This is a contract position with the potential for extension based on project needs and performance.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Wesley Cann